Stormwater ponds are not for recreational use
Warmer weather may have you excited to spend time outdoors in Vaughan, but please stay clear of stormwater ponds. The City of Vaughan is reminding everyone that swimming, boating, fishing and other play are not safe in and around stormwater ponds due to the constant flow of water in and out of the pond, multiple pollutants and unpredictable water levels. The bottom of these ponds is very soft, and anyone who enters, including pets, may quickly get stuck.
If you’re looking for a safe place to swim, visit vaughan.ca/swim for information on recreational swimming or swim classes at community centres. You can also visit vaughan.ca/PlayVaughanLocal for a guide to the wide variety of fun outdoor activities available in the city.
The following activities are also not permitted on or near stormwater ponds:
- planting gardens or cutting grass on pond property
- storing yard materials on pond property
- disposing of grass clippings, yard waste or garbage on pond property or into the pond
- disturbing plants and vegetation around the pond
- disposing of pet fish in the pond
- disposing of swimming pool water and chemicals on pond property or in the pond
It is recommended that gates to access pond property from fenced yards not be installed without first reviewing your land survey and seeking legal advice on property rights issues.
Individuals found dumping their household garbage at stormwater ponds are subject to a maximum fine of $50,000 per offence. If you witness illegal dumping or littering, report it to Access Vaughan at 905-832-2281 or accessvaughan@vaughan.ca. You may also report it through Service Vaughan.
The City is committed to protecting the environment and fostering a sustainable future while delivering Service Excellence, as outlined in the Council-approved 2018-2022 Term of Council Service Excellence Strategic Plan.
To learn more about the City’s stormwater ponds, watch this video or visit vaughan.ca/stormwater.
For updates and news as they happen, subscribe to Vaughan News and follow the official corporate channels on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
-30-